VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Christian Peña, a native of Norfolk, Virginia, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Group Two (MESG-2), part of the Navy’s expeditionary force.
Peña graduated from Princess Ann High School in 2022.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Norfolk.
“I learned how to grind and work hard,” Peña said. "I had to work for where I am, and that mindset helps me now."
Peña joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Peña serves as a logistics specialist.
“I joined because of my sister,” Peña said. "She's everything to me, and I wanted to give her more opportunities and someone to be proud of."
Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, delivers the Navy’s front line of defense in coastal waters and ports around the globe. Its sailors are trained to patrol harbors, escort high-value ships, and guard maritime chokepoints where danger is most likely to appear. Whether operating from fast patrol craft or shoreside security positions, they ensure freedom of movement for U.S. and allied forces in contested environments.
MESG-2’s mission is built on vigilance and quiet strength. Their presence may not always make headlines, but their work underpins the safety of every operation that begins or ends at sea. In the littorals — where a small gap in security can have outsized consequences — MESG-2 stands as a constant, capable force, committed to keeping the Navy’s lifelines secure.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Peña has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“Helping others promote and helping them out,” Peña said. "I always help my friends study and get through their qualifications."
Peña serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving gives me an opportunity to give back,” Peña said.
Peña is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I like to thank LS1 Goodman, she's the best,” Peña said. "She's given me so much knowledge and pushed me to do things I didn't think I could do."
“Shoutout to 757, shoutout to my neighborhood,” Peña said.